Do You Use Hyaluronic Acid Before or After Moisturizer? Skincare and Layering Guide

When it comes to effective skincare, layering is everything. 

How you apply skincare products affects how well they work, especially with powerful hydrators like hyaluronic acid. 

If it is in your serum, apply it before your moisturizer to lock in hydration. If you have a hyaluronic moisturizer, it simplifies your skincare routine by hydrating and sealing in moisture in one step. 

This article will provide you with the best approach to ensure your skin gets the full benefits of hyaluronic acid.

What Is Hyaluronic Acid, and Why Is it Essential?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring molecule in our skin that helps retain moisture. 

However, as we age, our skin's natural production of hyaluronic acid decreases. This naturally leads to dryness, fine lines, and wrinkles.

A typical natural face moisturizer will contain HA to keep skin smooth and youthful.

Here are some of the benefits it provides. 

• Hydrated skin. Hyaluronic acid attracts and retains moisture, leaving your skin plump and supple.
• Reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. By keeping your skin hydrated, hyaluronic acid helps minimize fine lines and wrinkles.
• Improved skin texture. Hyaluronic acid can help improve your skin's overall texture, making it smoother and more radiant.

If you want to double down on hydration, you can use ceramides and hyaluronic acid together.

While HA pulls in water, ceramides seal it in, creating a dream team for hydrated, youthful skin. Together, they’re a powerhouse duo for keeping your skin looking its best.

Should You Apply Hyaluronic Acid Before or After Moisturizer?

There is often confusion about how to use hyaluronic acid because it is commonly found in serums. Naturally, this raises the question, “Should it go before or after your moisturizer?” 

The answer is before.

Simply put, hyaluronic acid needs moisture to effectively work—and it works best when it has something to "lock-in." This is also what makes hyaluronic acid good for sensitive skin.

Think of hyaluronic acid as a magnet for moisture. It pulls water into the skin, but it needs an occlusive layer to keep that moisture from evaporating. This is why applying a moisturizer right after is crucial.

However, if your moisturizer already contains hyaluronic acid, it serves a dual purpose—hydrating the skin while also locking in moisture. 

In this case, you can simplify your routine by applying moisturizer right after cleansing.

How to Properly Use Hyaluronic Acid with Moisturizer

Using hyaluronic acid and moisturizer the right way can make all the difference for hydrated, glowing skin. 

Here is a brief step-by-step guide on how to combine them for the best results.

Step 1. Cleanse

Start with a clean base! Wash your face with your favorite cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup.

Step 2. Toner (Optional) 

Applying a hydrating toner can further prep your skin for better absorption of your skincare products.

Step 3. Apply Hyaluronic Acid Serum 

If you are using hyaluronic acid as a serum, apply a few drops to slightly damp skin. Damp skin allows the hyaluronic acid to draw in even more moisture.

Step 4. Follow with a Moisturizer

Next, layer on your moisturizer to lock in the hydration from the hyaluronic acid. This step is key to preventing moisture loss and keeping your skin barrier healthy.

Alternatively, use Supermello Hyaluronic Gel Cream Moisturizer. This moisturizer combines hyaluronic acid and a moisture barrier in one convenient product. For a simplified routine, apply it directly to damp skin.

Best Practices for Layering Hyaluronic Acid in Your Routine

It is important to use hyaluronic acid correctly in your skincare routine to get the most out of it. 

Here are some best practices for layering it effectively and reaping all its benefits.

1. Apply to Damp Skin

For optimal results, apply hyaluronic acid to damp, well-cleansed skin. This allows it to draw in even more moisture from the environment.

2. Layering Order Matters

As a general rule, apply lightweight, water-based products like hyaluronic acid serums or moisturizers before anything else. Next, follow it up with thicker creams or oils.

This ensures that lighter products penetrate better into the skin's deeper layers.

3. Mix and Match for Enhanced Benefits

Hyaluronic acid also works well with other skincare ingredients like Vitamin C, ceramides, or niacinamide. Combining ingredients with great hydrating properties means greater benefits for your skin. 

4. Avoid Heavy Oils Before HA

Avoid using heavy oils before applying a hyaluronic acid serum, as they can create a barrier that prevents proper absorption.  

5. Sunscreen Is Essential

This applies to any skincare routine, but especially when using hyaluronic acid. A well-hydrated, plump complexion is more susceptible to sun damage. To prevent sun damage, finish your morning routine with sunscreen.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying Products With Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a must-have in skincare, but how you use it makes all the difference. A few simple mistakes can leave your skin feeling dry or irritated instead of hydrated and glowing. 

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when applying products with Hyaluronic Acid.

1. Skipping Moisturizer After HA Serum

If you are using a hyaluronic acid serum, you can’t skip moisturizer—it’s essential for sealing in hydration and preventing moisture loss. 

However, if you’re using a hyaluronic moisturizer, you’re covered. It hydrates and locks in moisture all in one step, simplifying your routine.

2. Applying It to Dry Skin

HA works best on damp skin because it grabs onto water and boosts hydration. Applying it to dry skin? Not so much—it can actually pull moisture out instead.

3. Using Too Much

A few drops of hyaluronic acid are all you need. Using too much or in high concentration can leave your skin feeling sticky and make layering other products tricky.

If you have sensitive skin, overdoing it might even cause irritation or redness, so stick to a light application for the best results.

4. Applying It in the Wrong Order

Always layer HA before moisturizing. If you apply it after heavier products, it will not penetrate your skin deeply enough.

5. Not Adjusting for Dry Climates

In dry climates, HA can pull water from your skin if there is no humidity. Pair it with a richer moisturizer to keep your skin from feeling tight or dehydrated.

Incorporating Hyaluronic Acid into Day and Night Skincare

If you are using a hyaluronic acid serum in your routine, these steps will help you make the most of it, both day and night. These steps can also work if you are using Kinship's Supermello Moisturizer.

• For daytime, apply hyaluronic acid first, followed by a moisturizer, and always finish with sunscreen. Sunscreen is crucial for protecting your skin from UV damage and keeping it healthy.
• For nighttime, use your moisturizer as the final step to lock in moisture and nourish your skin while you sleep. This keeps your skin balanced and hydrated around the clock so you wake up with a fresh, healthy glow.

Remember, if you are using a moisturizer that already contains hyaluronic acid, you can simplify your routine by applying it directly to damp skin to lock in hydration effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I Need a Separate Hyaluronic Acid Serum if My Moisturizer Contains It?

Not necessarily. A hyaluronic moisturizer can provide sufficient hydration for many people. However, if you have very dry skin or live in a particularly arid climate or environment, you may benefit from using a separate hyaluronic acid serum as well.

Can I Use Hyaluronic Acid Every Day?

Yes, but it’s important to gradually incorporate it into your skincare routine. Start slowly and build up to twice-daily use to reap the amazing hydrating benefits of hyaluronic acid.

Can I Mix Hyaluronic Acid With Other Serums?

Absolutely! Hyaluronic acid is a versatile ingredient that plays well with others. You can layer it with other serums, such as vitamin C or niacinamide, to target specific skin concerns. Just be mindful of the order of application, as some serums may have specific pH requirements.

Key Takeaways: Do You Use Hyaluronic Acid Before or After Moisturizer? Skincare and Layering Guide

Using hyaluronic acid before your moisturizer is the key to locking in hydration and boosting your skin's health and glow. By following the proper steps and layering tips, you can maximize the benefits of this hydration hero. 

If you are new to HA, start experimenting with it in your routine—you’ll notice the difference. 

Here is a quick recap for easy reference.

• Apply Hyaluronic Acid First. Always layer HA before your moisturizer to allow it to draw moisture into your skin.
• Follow with a Moisturizer. A moisturizer is essential to lock in hydration and prevent water loss.
• Use HA on Damp Skin. Slightly damp skin helps hyaluronic acid work more effectively.
• Simplify with a Dual-Purpose Product. A hyaluronic acid moisturizer will hydrate and seal in moisture all in one step.
• Adjust for Your Climate. In dry conditions, pair HA with a richer moisturizer to avoid dehydration.

For more skincare tips, explore Kinship’s collection for the perfect additions to your routine!